If you’ve ever wondered how to make banana bread with cake mix, you’re in the right place. This easy banana bread recipe makes a moist, flavorful quick bread you can prepare ahead for the week or serve at family gatherings, potlucks, or backyard barbecues. It’s fast, forgiving, and uses simple ingredients you likely already have.
If you’re interested in similar shortcuts, look for posts on how to make boxed cake mix taste homemade, pancake mix cake ideas, and blueberry muffins made with pancake mix.
This cake mix banana bread trick is one of my favorite time-savers. It lets the banana flavor shine while giving the reliable crumb and rise of a cake mix. You can customize it with add-ins like chocolate chips, chunks, or your favorite nuts for texture and extra flavor.
This is the best cake mix banana bread recipe ever!
Why it works: the boxed cake mix provides structure and sweetness, while mashed overripe bananas add moisture and natural flavor. A bit of sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and oil keeps the loaf tender and moist. Chocolate chips create melty pockets; nuts add a pleasant crunch. This recipe is flexible, consistent, and perfect for busy bakers.
Why you should make this recipe
- Quick and easy: minimal prep and pantry-friendly ingredients.
- Uses overripe bananas, helping reduce food waste.
- Consistent results: boxed cake mix creates reliable texture.
- Customizable: swap cake mix flavors or add nuts, chocolate, or dried fruit.
- Moist and tender: sour cream/Greek yogurt and oil keep the loaf soft.
Ingredients for this quick banana bread recipe
The list below covers what you need. Exact measurements are in the recipe card further down.
- 3–4 overripe bananas, mashed (for sweetness and moisture)
- 1 box yellow cake mix (or another flavor you prefer)
- 3 eggs (binding)
- 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt (adds moisture)
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil (keeps bread tender)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (adds depth of flavor)
- 1 cup chocolate chips, or substitute walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (balances sweetness)
How to make this easy banana bread from a box of cake mix
Quick overview—full instructions are in the recipe card below:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line two loaf pans with parchment paper and grease the sides if needed.
- In a large bowl, mash the bananas, then whisk in the eggs, vanilla, oil, and sour cream until combined.
- Add the cake mix and salt, stirring until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips or nuts if using.
- Divide the batter between the loaf pans, top with extra chocolate chips if desired, and bake about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the loaves cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment overhang and transfer to a rack to cool completely before slicing.
Frequently asked questions – FAQ
How do I store leftover banana bread?
Store cooled banana bread in an airtight container or a resealable bag at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it in an airtight container. Always let the loaf cool completely before packing it away to avoid condensation.
Can I freeze this banana bread?
Yes. Cool the loaf fully, then slice if desired and wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for a few hours, or warm single slices in the microwave or toaster for a freshly baked feel.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free boxed cake mix as the base and follow the recipe as written. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels if you need strict gluten-free assurance.
Which cake mix flavors work best?
Try different cake mixes to change the profile: white, yellow, spice, chocolate, or even strawberry. Each will give a slightly different result—pick the one that complements your add-ins.
- White cake mix
- Yellow cake mix
- Spice cake mix
- Chocolate cake mix
- Strawberry cake mix
Can I bake this in a bundt pan?
Yes. Pour the batter into a greased bundt pan and bake at 350°F for 45–60 minutes. Test for doneness with a toothpick: when it comes out clean, the loaf is ready. Baking time will vary by pan size and oven, so check toward the end of the suggested time.
The best banana bread recipe made with cake mix
Cake Mix Banana Bread
This easy cake mix banana bread uses yellow cake mix and overripe bananas for a quick, moist loaf that’s perfect any time.
Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 45 mins | Total: 55 mins | Servings: about 24 slices
Ingredients
- 3–4 large overripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips (optional) or chopped walnuts/pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line two loaf pans with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides.
- In a large bowl, mash the bananas. Add the eggs, vanilla, oil, and sour cream; whisk until combined.
- Add the cake mix and salt, stirring just until combined. Fold in the chocolate chips or nuts.
- Divide the batter evenly between the two pans and top with extra chocolate chips if desired. Bake for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the loaves cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then lift them out and cool completely on a rack before slicing.
Nutrition (approx.)
Calories: 167 per serving | Carbs: 22 g | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 9 g
Nutrition information is an approximation.
Like this recipe? Leave a comment below and let me know how you customized your loaf.
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